Saturday, 15 December 2012

e x 13 complete

Sometimes projects take on their own momentum .... this was one of them.  When the idea was conceived I think I had quite different ideas in mind for what each envelope could/would contain.  I wrote none of this down which was remiss and I could recall none of those ideas when I tried. 

As the time came close for completion, I decided I just had to start the work and let come what may.  As I began gathering bits and pieces around the studio, papers, small copper etching plates, embossings and so forth a storyline began to emerge and once I was into the first few envelopes, the creative energy just seemed to take over.  In the end the thoughts all came rather quickly and spontaneously.

I think I will title my project  'Searching'  - a very loose title which I think encapsulates the random thoughts I had along the way, mapping part of that search knowing inside that in fact I need no longer look.  That I belong just where I am.

the thirteen envelopes



first - etching seen in last post

second - etchings, writing drawings

second - envelope and internal details

third envelope - etching, embossing and markmaking

fourth envelope - etching, embossing and marks

fifth envelope - etching, embossing and marks

details of envelope six  - embossings on leather, stained and marked papers

luminous graphite markings

seventh - etching on rusted paper, scratchings on envelope

envelope eight - leather embossing and rusted detail with marks

envelope nine - sewn together, suggestions of something inbetween layers

detail of envelope nine

envelope ten - sewn envelope, embossing and etching, markmaking

detail of envelope ten 

envelope eleven is a bound folio - thread supplied by generous Jennifer

envelope eleven - embossings on sublime fine paper, and etchings, marks

more details of envelope eleven

eleven - details

envelope twelve - etching, drawings, marks and scratchings on transparent paper

details of envelope twelve

details - envelope twelve

the twelfth  envelope has two etchings on its flap

thirteenth envelope - etchings on envelope and one page, staining, marks and writing drawings

details of envelope seven - (the search is over)
I smile often when I look back over the collaborative work Fiona and I have made in the latter part of this year.  I think I like it as much as any of the work I have ever done.  I am not sure why that is but I suggest it is something to do with such a lovely energy between us, the encouragement we give each other and the profound respect and liking we have for each other's work. It is more than this I am sure .... Fiona brings out the quieter side of my creativity I think, or at least the timing of this collaboration with the fact that I am in a happy place in my life, seems to make my work my thoughtful and quieter.
I count myself fortunate indeed :-)

13 comments:

  1. WOW! I am overwhelmed by the textures and details..really amazing!--Julie

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  2. Every photograph is a jewel of inspiration - I absolutely LOVE what you've done.
    I will look again and again at these photographs and I am already inspired by them.

    Wonderful - Thank you.

    Diane. x

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  3. Many times I don't comment on your work because I'm speechless. I wanted you to know that. Now I'll be speechless again.

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  4. S- I like the title - it seemed from earlier posts that the project in a way took you on a journey of its own and maybe gave you the opportunity to explore a number of themes and issues as you played with print and texture etc. There is no doubt the two of you have created some exquisite work through the collaboration; and maybe even had fun along the way. Go well. B

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  5. Susan - thanks for including each of your envelopes and their contents - what a stunning view and a lovely reminder! It's an astonishing piece of work when viewed this way. I feel so lucky to be working with you on this - its very special.

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  6. the work looks rich indeed, and i've enjoyed following your collaboration. thanks for sharing it.

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  7. What delicious bits and bobs, treasures indeed, contained within such loveliness.

    And thanks for the excellent photographs. Its a treat to see the work up close.

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  8. As Leslie commented, your photographs are excellent which has made it easy, not only to see this beautiful collaboration, but also to feel it. I get a sense of tracking in both yours and Fiona's work and I've enjoyed tracking your progress, back and forth between the two blog.

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  9. I love how you provide your imagery.. demonstrating your searching and tracking and the back and forth between you and fiona... wonderful. happy holidays and new year.

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  10. I truly drank in this bounteous feast for the eyes. Such a collaboration benefits both parties in a myraid of ways and results in magical maths. 1+1=so much more than 2.

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I appreciate your comments - thank you!